Printer control and document management system

Abstract

A printer control and information management system is provided employing numerous individual satellite modules, and providing an enterprise-wide output system capable of receiving all types of input and redirecting of all types of output. Data can be inputted from any location in an enterprise system and coordinated into a coherent format for reporting and forms processing. Forms can be automatically generated based on the data inputted, which forms can be directed to the appropriate personnel. The system provides for notifications to the appropriate personnel in order to resolve problems which may arise from the operation of the various equipment utilized in the enterprise network system. Information can be redirected to anyone within the system, the user identifying the manner and format of the information to be presented. Thus, inbound reports can be received from different systems and outputs delivered in the format that is preferred by the user. Report recognition is provided for any application, with the ability to merge textual information with electronic forms. Additionally, the forms can be completed with bar code information to prevent inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information. Large and contiguous host generated reports can be electronically distributed to users, as well as the ability to automatically fax any type of report directly to any recipient. The system can be accessed via the Internet for ease of inputting and reviewing information at any location.

Description

[0001] This application is related to provisional application Serial No. 60 / 190,856, filed Mar. 20, 2000.[0002] 1. Technical Field[0003] The invention relates to an enterprise output management and information control system, and more particularly to an Internet based forms management and printing program directed to the health care industry.[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art[0005] In large enterprise systems and business ventures, it is not uncommon that numerous personnel require access to various pieces of information regarding a particular project or job, which information is derived from a variety of sources. In the health care industry, for example, a patient can typically undergo a variety of tests performed by numerous and varied health care professionals, ranging from a routine physical exam to more complex procedures such as EKG's, MRI's, and evaluations of clinic tests and lab reports which may be performed as part of a complex medical procedure. In addition, should t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0021] Data can thus be input from any location in the management and control system and coordinated into a coherent format for reporting and forms processing. Based upon analyzation of the input data, forms are automatically generated and directed to appropriate personnel. To prevent the inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information, the forms may be encoded with bar code information. Alert mechanisms are utilized to notify appropriate personnel of problems arising from operation of the equipment. The management and control system may be accessed by a user at a remote location, thus enabling the input and review of information at virtually any location.

Problems solved by technology

This numerous form completion process is very time consuming and involves repetitive information input.

A computer system for such an enterprise is typically large-and complex.

For example, a printer malfunction must be brought to the attention of the personnel in the immediate area for routine maintenance items such as a paper jam or that the machine needs to be refilled with blank paper.

Since these computer systems are highly complex and require numerous PC's and peripherals to be interconnected, it is very common for components to be supplied by more than one original equipment manufacturer (OEM) which must then be integrated within the system.

Images